Prime Minister Rabuka meets the President of the State of Israel

Prime Minister Honourable Sitiveni Rabuka yesterday held a bilateral meeting with the President of the State of Israel, His Excellency Isaac Herzog, where he reaffirmed Fiji’s strong ties and growing partnership with Israel.

During the meeting, Prime Minister Rabuka highlighted the historic inauguration of Fiji’s Diplomatic Mission in Jerusalem, describing it as a milestone that will elevate cooperation in areas such as disaster resilience, agriculture and food security, education, technology solutions, health, and security.

He also proposed the revival of the Israel-Pacific Islands Summit, first hosted in Fiji in 2020, as part of efforts to strengthen regional solidarity and cooperation with Israel, especially now that Fiji and Papua New Guinea have embassies in Jerusalem.

On regional priorities, Prime Minister Rabuka briefed President Herzog on the Pacific’s 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent and the recently adopted Ocean of Peace Declaration, which seeks to promote peace, stability, and security in the region and beyond.

He further expressed Fiji’s understanding of the history and current situation in the region, expressed solidarity with Israel amid ongoing security challenges and reaffirmed Fiji’s support in its efforts to reach durable solutions for itself and the region.

“Fiji values Israel’s friendship and looks forward to deepening our partnership for the peace and prosperity of our peoples,” Prime Minister Rabuka added.
In his response, President Herzog congratulated Fiji for opening its embassy in Jerusalem, describing it as a milestone in the long-standing partnership between the two nations.

He reaffirmed Israel’s deep appreciation of Fiji’s friendship and expressed confidence that the new mission will further deepen understanding and strengthen cooperation between the peoples of Israel and Fiji in all areas of cooperation.

In recognising Fiji’s status and role in the Pacific region, the President underscored the need to spare no effort at advancing this relationship to address emerging challenges confronting both countries including in dealing with the impacts of climate change, transnational organised crime and development.

Fiji and Israel established diplomatic relations in 1970, laying the foundation for a strong partnership built on mutual respect, shared values, and close cooperation over the decades.

Over the years, the two nations have worked closely in areas such as peace building, agriculture, health, and capacity building.

Fiji values Israel’s consistent support and friendship, while Israel has long recognised Fiji’s contributions to global peace and security.
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